Plant Cell Central Vacuole: The Key Organelle Taking Up Much Volume

Which organelle often takes up much of the volume of a plant cell?

A. Chloroplast
B. Lysosome
C. Golgi Apparatus
D. Central Vacuole

Answer:

The central vacuole is the organelle that often occupies a significant portion of the volume in a plant cell.

In plant cells, the central vacuole is a large organelle that occupies a significant portion of the cell's volume. It is surrounded by a membrane called the tonoplast and contains a fluid called cell sap.

The central vacuole plays crucial roles in plant cell function and structure. It helps maintain cell turgidity and provides structural support to the plant by exerting pressure against the cell wall. The central vacuole also serves as a storage compartment for water, ions, nutrients, pigments, and waste products.

The size and volume of the central vacuole can vary depending on the developmental stage of the plant and its specific function. In mature plant cells, the central vacuole can occupy up to 90% of the cell's volume.

In conclusion, the central vacuole is the organelle that often takes up much of the volume in a plant cell, contributing to its unique structure and functionality.